What do you check for when inspecting brake pads?

When inspecting brake pads, it's essential to check for thickness, wear patterns, and signs of damage to ensure the braking system functions correctly and safely. The thickness of the brake pads determines how effective they will be during stopping; pads that are too thin can significantly reduce braking performance and increase stopping distances, posing a safety risk.

Additionally, examining wear patterns can indicate issues with the braking system, such as uneven wear suggesting problems with calipers or alignment. Signs of damage, such as cracks or excessive wear, can also signal that the brake pads need to be replaced. Proper inspection ensures that the brake system operates as intended, maintains vehicle safety, and mitigates further wear on other brake components.

Checking for fluid leaks, battery life, and tire tread depth are important maintenance tasks, but they do not pertain specifically to the overall condition and functionality of the brake pads. Each of these checks focuses on separate components of the vehicle and is not directly related to the performance of the brakes themselves.